Fun road descends through thick aspen groves to upper reservoir that provides water to the town of Palmer Lake. Obey all posted regulations. Great fall color. Camp at bottom before the gate. Typically, road is very rutted from erosion, which makes for an exciting drive, especially for novice SUV owners. Entrance to trail from Rampart Range Road is convenient to vehicles coming up Mt. Herman Road. Many dispersed camp spots and plenty of room to unload unlicensed vehicles along upper part of trail. Athough trail is short, it is longer than most side roads in the area, making it worth the time to unload. No unlicensed vehicles allowed on Rampart Range Road.
(719) 636-1602Pike N.F., Pikes Peak R.D.
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Provide an Update08/22/2023
Submitted by PT
Trail was being maintained when we drove it. A bulldozer was grading and repairing. Trail should be rated easy, BUT high clearance SUV with low-range 4-wheel-drive is needed near the lake. Not for all-wheel drive vehicles.
04/13/2022
Submitted by Tom
It is pretty rutted up and should be reclassified as a moderate trail due to the need for 33″+ tires (and low-range in a few spots when coming back up). There is also a section down near the lake, just past the tight switchback, where a lot of articulation is needed to get passed some alternating humps in the road – and coming back up it may be challenging for anyone without at least a rear locker.
Fun trail with some really pretty views and some neat rock formations. I have run Balanced Rock Rd several times...See More